Wednesday, July 25, 2012

In That We Stop to Appreciate So Called 'Sour' Beers

The people at Plaza Liquors say this is one of their finest "sour" beers.

Sour beers aren't actually sour, but I understand why they're known as such. The beer has a tart flavor like a cider, but it's different. It's almost like the human tongue can't figure out what to do so it files it under the sour category so you don't go crazy over analyzing the situation.

I like trying new and different beer, which often means trying different ales, stouts, porters or strange brews with different hops or other additives. But this sour thing is like a whole new species of beer, and according to some it's rapidly becoming rather popular.

Today I stopped in at Plaza Liquors at 2642 N. Campbell Road to see which sour beers they had in stock. One of the ladies working said sour beers are her favorites, adding that they are quickly becoming popular with local beer connoisseurs They had a half-dozen or so in stock, each featuring different flavors, brewing techniques and origins.

Another beer expert at Plaza Liquors says the beer is imparted with the unique sour flavor through the use of a special wild yeast that, if used improperly, can wreak havoc on the fermentation process. He rattled off the scientific name of the yeast strain and a bunch of other facts, further cementing my opinion that Plaza Liquors is the best place to buy beer in Tucson.

1702 also has several sour beers on tap right now, specifically Tart Lychee, Monk's Cafe and Duchesse.